Another stunning mother stepping up to the plate to talk about self love and body image. Danielle was totally fearless and absolutely gorgeous.

When I asked Danielle why she wanted to participate in Divine-Mothering ‘s Photo+Interviews she had so much energy and excitement in her. “I like your mission.” She told me.

She said she was tired of the competition among women, and I can’t say I blame her. In a society that wants us to put on a picture of perfection when it comes to parenting, beauty, femininity, and domestic life, the struggle to keep up with impossible standards is quite exhausting.

Mother, and full time student, Danielle reflects, “I don’t have time to get my body to where other people want it.” Besides that, she added “The standards are unattainable.”

I couldn’t agree more. In a world plastered with 18 to 20somethings in the peak of their youth, it’s difficult for mothers to see where their postpartum bodies fit in. Not only that, but the ridiculous pressure to get your body back can set off a wave of depression and self loathing for a task that, specially for the first few years of parenting, can feel quite impossible. The struggle for personal time to go to the bathroom, let alone exercise, is a very real issue for new mothers.

“I can now appreciate my body for what it’s given me.This is who I am now, I was given the gift of life.” And let me tell you Danielle, you are stunningly beautiful.

“I’m a better version of myself. I can see the world through another set of eyes.”

“It’s just time that I accept the changes.”

I must say, Danielle, you are an amazing woman. Thank you so much for coming out and supporting this project. Through you, and all the women who have come to step up to the plate and speak out, we will uplift each other through the journey that is motherhood. No matter what it brings. Thank you for sharing yourself and bit of your story.